Utilization of Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) from Kepok Banana Pseudostem (Musa acuminata) as A Filler and Glycerol as A Plasticizer in Starch-Based Bioplastics from Cassava Peels (Manihot esculenta)

Abstract

The use of agricultural residues as renewable reinforcing materials offers a sustainable strategy to enhance the performance of biodegradable bioplastics. This study aims to characterize Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) derived from the pseudostem of kepok banana and to analyze its effects on the characteristics and mechanical properties of bioplastics. In this study, 10 g of starch was used, with MCC concentrations of 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, and 15% (%w/w) and glycerol at 20%, 30%, and 40% (%v/w) relative to the mass of starch. The process of isolating MCC from kepok banana pseudostem is by hydrolysis with 50% H2SO4. The highest tensile strength value was 2.5 MPa in bioplastics filled with 5% MCC and 30% glycerol, with an elongation percentage of 7.92% and a Young's modulus of 48.68 MPa. FTIR analysis of bioplastics showed C-H, -OH, and C=C functional groups, confirming the presence of starch and cellulose. The addition of 5% MCC can increase tensile strength, as supported by SEM test results showing a denser, non-porous, non-cracked bioplastic surface. The results of the biodegradation test using the soil burial method, with an MCC-to-glycerol ratio of 5:30, showed 20% degradation in 15 days. The open-air test method yielded 12.5% degradation. These results demonstrate that MCC derived from kepok banana pseudostem can effectively enhance the mechanical performance of cassava peel starch-based bioplastics while providing a sustainable approach for the valorization of agricultural residues.